In looking to modernize its middle school and high school in Columbus, Ohio, Metro Schools selected Kleinfelder to design renovations around its new branding, including architecture, interior design services, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design. The Metro Schools model focuses on STEAM education, with many students completing their high school curriculum alongside college-level courses.

Modernization Plan

Working closely with the superintendent and school staff, Kleinfelder established and designed a plan that addressed all of the school’s modernization and renovation plans, while incorporating the new color scheme around the Metro logo colors. The design team was also instrumental in selecting the construction manager at risk and assisting with scheduling and planning construction activities to keep the school open and operational during the planned construction period.

Design and renovations included: selective demolition of half of the existing building, design of new middle school classrooms and labs, indoor activities/exercise area, administrative offices, and student health areas.

Design-Assist Approach and Accelerated Schedule 

Kleinfelder utilized a variety of methods to help ensure the project stayed on schedule and was completed on time, including:

• Working with Metro Schools, The Ohio State University, and supporting firms to provide expedited design services to obtain building permits, meeting a tight schedule of approximately seven weeks
• Establishing partnerships with supporting firms during specification and selection of systems and construction material to avoid long lead products in order to meet the project schedule
• Working closely with Metro Schools and supporting firms to expedite shop drawing reviews in order to complete the project during the 2023 summer break period
• Fostering a design-assist approach between Kleinfelder and the construction manager at risk to allow teams to work more efficiently on an accelerated schedule

Project Results

Meeting all deadlines on an accelerated schedule, renovations at Metro Schools were completed in time for students to return to classes for the Fall 2023 semester. The upgraded and new spaces, including classrooms, offices, and labs, incorporated modernization goals and aesthetic touches that reflected the new logo and branding of the school system.

Project Details

Location:
Columbus, OH
Owner:
Metro Schools